in·de·pend·ence [in-di-pen-duhns]1. Also, independency. the state or quality of being independent.2. freedom from the control, influence, support, aid, or the like, of others.

in·ter·de·pend·ence [in-ter-di-pen-duhns]the quality or condition of being interdependent, or mutually reliant on each other

As we celebrate our independence from a king and a kingdom, I am increasingly aware of our crucial need for greater interdependence with a King and a Kingdom. The incredible courage and self-determination it took to escape the control and tyranny of an oppressive monarchy might have lingering costs greater than we could have imagined.

The prototypical small American business owner is an extension and celebration of that pioneering spirit that made our country great. Small business owners stand on the shoulders of their entrepreneurial fathers; Henry Ford, Ray Kroc, and more recently, Steve Jobs and Bill Gates. Stepping outside more certain and defined paths, they went their own way and changed the course of history.

While we love that about them, there can be an ugly undercurrent to that path. Many of the small business owners we encounter are overwhelmed, frustrated, and completely alone. The same pioneering spirit that afforded them the courage and independence to chart their own course is often the source of their isolation and eventual failure.

The reality is that we were created for relationship. The entire story of mankind is essentially one where God is separated from his children who are desperately trying to be reconciled. He clarified His intentions, wiped the earth to start over, and ultimately took the form of man and paid the ultimate sacrifice. All so that we might be known as the children of God and walk in a deep interdependent relationship with Him.

A very wise man of the faith I know, recently described the New Testament as less a rule book of tips and techniques and more of a relational handbook of what it looked like to walk in intimacy with the Father. More of a celebration of deep and intimate fellowship between the Creator and the crown of His creation.

Today, we are more crucially aware of how we can’t go it alone and how desperately we need others. In a season of our greatest success, the stakes seem to be increasing and our pathway ever more perilous. The enemy prowls and seems to threaten our every next step.

We have better clarity on the unique calling and purpose for our lives

We are drawing upon wise counsel at every turn

We are seeking greater independence from the way of the world and and greater interdependence with a King and His Kingdom. It is glorious and terrifying. The way forward is both incredibly clear and wildly uncertain. It makes no sense outside of deep fellowship and heart knowledge of God. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Are you frustrated, tired, and alone?

Are you living in a universe that revolves around you where nothing seems to happen outside of your power, will, and control?

How willing are you to give up the independence that stands in the way of the great interdependence our faith requires?